How to Start Vegetable Seeds Inside the House

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How to Start Vegetable Seeds Inside the House

Overview

Growing vegetables, for the first time, can seem overwhelming. It doesn't have to be. Just take one step at a time. If you live in a location that has a short growing season ( a northerly area or high altitude), starting your seeds inside the house is a good beginning. You can gain a month or two in growing time. Involve the rest of the family members as it's easy enough for even preschoolers to take part in with some supervision and guidance.

Step 1

Step 2

Fill the containers with a commercial potting soil from your local garden center. This soil is best for seeding as it contains no diseases that could harm your young plants. The soil should reach from one-half to three-quarters inch from the top of the container.

Step 3

Sow your vegetable seeds. Plant the seeds at the depth required by the manufacturer. This information is generally found on the backside of the seed packet. It will also tell you how long the seed will take to germinate (seedling pops through the soil). Every type of seed is different. Cover the seed, after it's planted, with soil.

Step 4

Write directly onto the container or attach a piece of masking tape and write the name of the vegetable. It is easy to forget by the time the seeds are seedlings and ready to be planted in the yard or garden.

Step 5

Spray the top of the soil with a water bottle mister, to dampen it. Do not spray so much water that the soil is saturated.

Step 6

Place all the containers into a tray and place it by a sunny window in a warm room. A southern window is advantageous, as the plants will get sunshine for most of the day.

Step 7

Place all the containers into a tray and place it by a sunny window in a warm room. A southern window is advantageous, as the plants will get sunshine for most of the day.

Step 8

When the seedlings are about two to three inches in height, they are ready to be planted outdoors. Make sure the weather and ground has warmed a bit and any chilling weather (frost) is over for the year.